The Rescue: A Tale Of Redemption And Friendship

Seema met Nishant in college during their MBA program from XLRI in Jamshedpur. Both hailed from Dhanbad. Seema was never comfortable talking with other guys due to her introverted nature. But after a few months, she noticed some similar traits in Nishant and dared to strike up a conversation with him. They began conversing frequently during their college cultural meet participations. Seema excelled at anchoring, and Nishant was skilled at acting, so their casual meetings during cultural events were anticipated.

As time passed, Seema developed a strong liking for Nishant, admiring his artistic nature. However, Nishant only saw her as a friend. During their final year of MBA, Seema learned that Nishant was committed to someone else, Shivani, a girl he had known since childhood. Despite feeling disheartened, Seema moved on after completing her MBA.

Five years later, Seema was working as a product manager in an MNC, commuting to the office four days a week and working from home for one day. Meanwhile, her parents were searching for a groom for her. To her surprise, she discovered Nishant working in the same office, leading a different team. They met during a lunch break.

"How are you, Seema? Where have you been all these days?" Nishant initiated the conversation.

"I'm doing well. And you?" Seema inquired.

"I wanted to invite you to my wedding, but your phone number was unreachable," Nishant complained.

"Apologies, I must have missed your calls. I've been busy with my career," Seema replied.

The lunch break was brief, so they exchanged numbers and parted ways. Lost in memories of their college days, Seema glanced at Nishant's display picture on WhatsApp, where he posed with Shivani and their daughter. Returning to reality, she focused on her work.

Months passed, and Seema noticed a change in Nishant's behaviour. He appeared calmer and quieter, unlike the vibrant person he used to be. Sometimes, he exhibited anger towards colleagues, which troubled Seema. Upon inquiry, she learned that he was undergoing trauma and medication.

One day, Nishant invited Seema and other colleagues to his home for a festival. Initially hesitant, Seema eventually attended. She congratulated Shivani on their wedding anniversary but withheld mention of their past. While fetching water in the kitchen, Seema overheard Nishant and Shivani arguing.

Seema listened to their argument, feeling sorry for Nishant. Witnessing his transformation from a humorous individual to one filled with anger saddened her. Concerned, she and her colleagues left, leaving a gratitude note for Nishant.

After few days, Seema travelled to Australia for some official assignment. She returned India after six months. After returning from an official assignment in Australia, Seema discovered Nishant's absence in the office. Upon inquiry, she learned he had been in a mental asylum for four months due to a drug overdose. Shocked, she went to Nishant’s home and approached Shivani for clarity.

"He started taking drugs and abusing me," Shivani explained.

"Sending him to a mental asylum isn't a solution. You should have consulted a doctor," Seema suggested.

Agitated, Shivani retorted, "Stop meddling. You're just a colleague."

The next day, Seema obtained the address of the mental asylum and visited Nishant. Consulting his doctor and reviewing his case history, she was shocked to discover it was a case of drug overdose. "Can I meet Nishant? I'm a close friend," she asked the doctor. "His mental condition is unstable. He might behave violently," the concerned doctor cautioned. "I know him well; I could be of help. Please trust me," assured Seema. Granted permission, Seema met Nishant. Upon seeing her, Nishant burst into tears and knelt down. Though Seema couldn't control her tears, she composed herself. "Since I've been here, no one has dared to visit me, not even Shivani. What brought you here?" asked Nishant softly. "Perhaps I understand you better than most, which is why I'm here," replied Seema. A sense of trust emanated from her voice as she assured Nishant of her help. With the doctor's approval, Seema took Nishant out of the mental asylum. They retreated to a serene place, less crowded and surrounded by nature, where Nishant opened up about his past life and Shivani. He revealed how she married him and turned abusive, leading him into drug addiction. He had consented to her demands, jeopardizing their daughter's life and their relationship. When matters went out of control, he was institutionalized. Seema was stunned by his revelation. "Why didn't you seek help? From your parents?" she inquired. "My parents opposed the marriage, so they distanced themselves. I lacked the courage to confide in anyone," replied Nishant. "Don't worry. I'm here to help. You can trust me," assured Seema.

The next day, Seema took leave from the office. With full responsibility, she completed the discharge formalities at the mental asylum for Nishant. She took a house on rent for Nishant, nearby her home. She started his anti-drug treatments by consulting a good doctor. In few days, Nishant’s condition started improving. Now Nishant had a good trust on Seema. He started feeling better with her support. He felt positive and more confident about himself. Seema also helped him to end his toxic relationship with Shivani. Nishant was granted her daughter’s custody legally after few months. Gradually he started taking all his responsibilities. Now he is leading a healthier and happy life. Seema was like an angel for him in his escape journey, trusting him and bringing him back from the toxic world.